The IPL 2025 Final between Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Punjab Kings (PBKS) kicked off in grand style at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on June 3, with a moving pre-match ceremony dedicated to the Indian Armed Forces. The vibrant event featured electrifying dance performances and powerful musical tributes, setting the tone for the high-stakes clash.
The evening began with a spirited dance presentation set to patriotic Bollywood tracks like Teri Mitti, Hum India Waale, and Challa (Main Lad Jaana). These stirring numbers paid homage to the valour and sacrifices of the Indian Armed Forces, capturing the crowd’s attention and evoking a deep sense of national pride.
ALSO READ: Sunil Gavaskar Makes Bold Prediction Ahead of IPL 2025 Final Between RCB and PBKS
The energy continued to build as celebrated playback singer Shankar Mahadevan took the stage alongside Siddharth Mahadevan, Shivam Mahadevan, and Shrinidhi Ghatate. The group performed a series of soulful and rousing songs, including Lehra Do, Hindustani, Lakshya, Maa Tujhe Salaam, and Jai Ho.
Lighting up the #Final with an enthusiastic Tribute Ceremony 🇮🇳#TATAIPL | #RCBvPBKS | #Final | #TheLastMile pic.twitter.com/b0WptvNnIO
— IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) June 3, 2025
Before starting their set, Shankar and his team expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Armed Forces, dedicating their performance to the brave men and women who protect India’s borders. Following the emotional tribute, attention turned to the cricket as the captains strode out for the toss.
WATCH – Punjab vs Karnataka: CMs Rally Behind Teams Ahead of IPL 2025 Final
PBKS skipper Shreyas Iyer won the toss and elected to bowl first, citing the magnitude of the occasion and his team’s readiness to chase under pressure. RCB captain Rajat Patidar admitted he would have chosen to bowl first as well but remained unfazed, calling it “just another game” despite the final’s enormous pressure. Both teams opted to stick with their winning combinations, making no changes from their previous matches. The stage was set for a dramatic conclusion to IPL 2025.
